What does it mean to be American when the nation's soul is on trial?

In an era of deepening divides and rising uncertainty, America at the Crossroads: Race, Islam, and Leadership delivers a bold, urgent inquiry into American identity. Distinguished Professor and Ambassador Akbar Ahmed asks a question that echoes from Washington to Wichita: Who are we now, and where are we going?

For readers of political thought, history, sociology, and interfaith dialogue, this is an essential companion to understanding the fault lines of today’s America.

In this sweeping and illuminating follow-up to his 2010 book Journey into America, Ahmed draws on decades of research and firsthand experience to present a groundbreaking framework for understanding American identity: the primordial, pluralist, and predator models. These three archetypes, shaped by centuries of conflict and coexistence, are reflected in leaders from Thomas Jefferson and Ronald Reagan to Barack Obama, Joe Biden, and Donald Trump.

At the core of the book is the evolving, often fraught relationship between America and its Muslim citizens. From the surveillance state and post-9/11 suspicion to landmark achievements like the election of Muslim congresspeople and judges, Ahmed captures the tension—and potential—of a nation in flux. Through ethnographic insight and compassionate narrative, he gives voice to those caught in the storm of race, religion, and leadership.

Read more about the book here.